Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton is urging regional airport owners and operators to apply for their share in $100 million of funding for safety upgrades, as part of the Coalition Government’s new Regional Airports Program.

Mr Coulton said the government continues to back rural and regional communities in the Parkes electorate through job creation, access to more reliable transport and better service delivery.

“The Regional Airports Program will help to make sure regional airports meet the needs of communities and local industry now and into the future,” Mr Coulton said.

“By improving the safety for those using regional airports or aerodromes, we can keep goods and services flowing and better support aeromedical and other emergency services.

“I strongly encourage owners and operators of any regional airport who can identify a need for an upgrade to make an application when the first round opens on 24 October.

“Grants of between $20,000 and $5 million will be available.

“Applications for this round will remain open until 12 December to provide ample time for communities to make strong proposals.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the guidelines are now available, giving airport owners and operators more information on their eligibility for the program.

“For many regional communities, the local airport provides an essential link to the rest of Australia,” Mr McCormack said.

“That’s why we’ve committed $100 million over four years from 2019–20 to 2022–23 to help owners of regional airports right across Australia deliver safer runways, taxiways and other safety upgrades such as new fencing or safety equipment.”

A total of $45 million is available for Round 1 of the program. Guidelines and other information is available from www.business.gov.au/assistance/regional-airports-program or by calling 13 28 46.